A nurse is teaching a client who has a new colostomy about how to control odors and flatus.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
"Avoid drinking cranberry juice.”.
"Place a breath mint in the pouch.”.
"Include eggs in your daily diet.”.
"Chew sugar-free gum after each meal.”. *
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Cranberry juice has a low pH, creating an acidic environment in the gastrointestinal tract which can help to neutralize bacteria and reduce malodorous compounds like indole and skatole, thereby decreasing odor. This action is beneficial, so avoiding it is not the correct advice for odor control.
Choice B rationale
Breath mints or commercial deodorizers contain ingredients like peppermint or chlorophyll that chemically neutralize odor-causing volatile sulfur compounds produced during digestion. Placing a breath mint inside the ostomy pouch releases these agents, effectively masking and reducing the unpleasant smell from gas and stool.
Choice C rationale
Eggs are a rich source of sulfur-containing amino acids, such as cysteine and methionine. When these are digested by intestinal bacteria, they produce hydrogen sulfide gas, which is the primary contributor to a strong, unpleasant odor and increased flatus. Consuming eggs would exacerbate the problem.
Choice D rationale
Sugar-free gum often contains sugar alcohols like sorbitol or xylitol. These are poorly absorbed in the small intestine and are fermented by colonic bacteria, leading to the production of gas. This can increase flatus and may contribute to bloating and discomfort for the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Amnioinfusion is the infusion of saline into the amniotic cavity. It is used to treat umbilical cord compression or meconium staining, not to manage seizures. Initiating an amnioinfusion during a seizure would be an inappropriate and ineffective intervention that would not address the underlying physiological cause of eclampsia or the immediate post-seizure recovery.
Choice B rationale
An internal fetal heart monitor is an invasive procedure requiring the rupture of membranes and insertion of a fetal spiral electrode. This is not the priority action following a seizure. Post-seizure priority is maternal stabilization, ensuring a patent airway, and preventing further injury. External fetal monitoring is the standard first-line approach to assess fetal well-being.
Choice C rationale
Calcium gluconate is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity, not a treatment for seizures. Administering calcium gluconate would be inappropriate unless magnesium toxicity (e.g., respiratory depression) is suspected. The primary treatment for eclamptic seizures is magnesium sulfate, which works by depressing the central nervous system and blocking neuromuscular conduction.
Choice D rationale
Placing the client on her side is the priority action following a seizure. This position prevents aspiration of secretions, promotes venous return to the heart, and improves placental perfusion. This is a critical safety measure to protect both the mother and the fetus from further harm and is part of standard post-ictal care. *.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Postterm pregnancy, defined as a gestation extending beyond 42 weeks, is not a contraindication for misoprostol. In fact, it is a common indication for labor induction, as the placenta may begin to deteriorate, increasing the risk of fetal distress and meconium aspiration. Misoprostol, a prostaglandin E1 analog, helps ripen the cervix and stimulate uterine contractions. This pharmacologic action is beneficial in initiating labor in postterm pregnancies.
Choice B rationale
Transverse fetal lie is an obstetrical position where the fetus is lying sideways across the uterus. This position poses a significant risk of complications during vaginal birth, including uterine rupture and umbilical cord prolapse. Therefore, any attempt to induce labor with a medication like misoprostol is contraindicated. Cesarean delivery is typically the preferred method of delivery in cases of persistent transverse lie to ensure a safe delivery for both mother and fetus.
Choice C rationale
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition where a fetus is smaller than expected for gestational age. It is not a contraindication for misoprostol. Often, IUGR is an indication for labor induction to prevent further fetal compromise. Misoprostol is a commonly used medication for this purpose, as it helps to initiate cervical ripening and uterine contractions, which can lead to a successful vaginal delivery.
Choice D rationale
A history of a cesarean section is a significant contraindication for misoprostol because it substantially increases the risk of uterine rupture. Misoprostol causes potent uterine contractions that can place undue stress on the uterine scar from the previous surgery. The risk of rupture is a life-threatening complication for both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, other methods of labor induction or a planned repeat cesarean section are often considered. *.
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